Expectation can be a double-edged sword. Ireland’s 23-13 defeat against the All Blacks on Friday was proof of that.
So used to glittering nights under the lights at the Aviva have we become that a loss like last week hurts all the more. But although the result didn’t go Ireland’s way, it was still a game very much worth watching.
The All Blacks were on form, there were battles being won and lost right around the pitch, and until the closing 12 minutes the largest score gap was just six points.
And yet, for those present at Lansdowne Road, it came across as a sedate affair. Commenting on Friday’s atmosphere at the Aviva, Johnny Watterson writes: “[Spectators] expect to get bang for their buck from the performance, and maybe a feeling of entitlement.
The Counter Ruck: the rugby newsletter from The Irish Times
Felipe Contepomi believes consistency is the key for Argentina after recent breakthroughs
Ireland v Argentina: TV details, kick-off time, team news and more
Ireland v Argentina: Robbie Henshaw takes over from Bundee Aki in only change to starting XV
“That’s one reason why many spectators began to file out of the ground while the action was still in progress ... fans voted with their feet and either left the ground or went to purchase drinks to bring back to their seats.”
The Irish Times wants to hear what you thought of the atmosphere at the Aviva Stadium for the Ireland v New Zealand game. Did it fall flat because of result? Are the in-match comings and goings of spectators from their seats a nuisance? Did it live up to what we’ve come to expect from these big Test encounters?
You can share your experience using the form below. A selection of the responses may be published in The Irish Times.
- Sign up for push alerts and have the best news, analysis and comment delivered directly to your phone
- Join The Irish Times on WhatsApp and stay up to date
- Listen to our Inside Politics podcast for the best political chat and analysis
